Colonel Melissa A. Zebley has made history as the first female Police Superintendent of the Delaware State Police (DSP), a position she has held since July 13, 2020. With over three decades of experience in law enforcement, Zebley’s journey to the top has been marked by dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to serving her community.
Early Career and Education
Zebley began her career as a State Trooper in July 1992, assigned to Troop 6 in Prices Corner, New Castle County. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware and a Master of Science degree in Administration of Justice from Wilmington University, which she obtained in 2003. Zebley is also a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command (2000) and the FBI National Academy (2008), further enhancing her skills and knowledge in the field of law enforcement.
Climbing the Ranks
Throughout her career, Zebley has held various positions, including drill instructor, sergeant, public information officer, and operations officer. Her steady progression through the ranks is a testament to her dedication and leadership abilities. In August 2019, she was promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel by Superintendent Colonel Nathaniel McQueen, Jr., signaling her selection as his apparent successor.
Making History as Superintendent
On July 13, 2020, Zebley made history when she was appointed as the first female Police Superintendent of the Delaware State Police. In this role, she oversees the agency’s approximately 1,000 employees, including 730 sworn officers. Zebley’s leadership has been marked by a commitment to mentorship and support for her team, as well as a focus on diversity and inclusion within the police force.
Challenges and Vision
As Superintendent, Zebley has emphasized the importance of creating an equitable environment for all officers. She has expressed concerns about the challenges faced by law enforcement in the current climate, including respect and safety issues. Despite these challenges, Zebley remains committed to her vision of a strong, diverse, and effective police force that serves the people of Delaware with integrity and professionalism.
What are some key moments in Melissa Zebley’s career that highlight her dedication to law enforcement
Colonel Melissa A. Zebley’s career in law enforcement is marked by several key moments that underscore her dedication and commitment to the Delaware State Police (DSP) and the community she serves. Here are some highlights:
Early Career and Commitment to Training
- Appointment as State Trooper (1992): Zebley began her career with the DSP in July 1992, starting her journey in law enforcement. Her initial assignment was to Troop 6 in Prices Corner, New Castle County, where she began building her foundation in policing.
- Continuous Education: Zebley graduated from the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command in 2000 and earned a Master of Science degree in Administration of Justice from Wilmington University in 2003. Her commitment to education is further exemplified by her role as an adjunct instructor and program assistant in the university’s Criminal Justice Program, demonstrating her dedication to training the next generation of law enforcement professionals.
Professional Development and Leadership
- FBI National Academy Graduate (2008): Completing the 235th session of the FBI National Academy is a significant achievement that highlights her commitment to professional development and leadership within law enforcement.
- Promotion to Lieutenant Colonel (2019): Zebley was promoted to lieutenant colonel by Superintendent Colonel Nathaniel McQueen, Jr., which was a pivotal moment in her career, indicating her readiness to take on greater responsibilities and her potential as a future leader of the DSP.
Historic Appointment as Superintendent
- Becoming Police Superintendent (2020): On July 13, 2020, Zebley made history as the first female Police Superintendent of the Delaware State Police. This appointment not only reflects her dedication and hard work but also serves as an inspiration for women in law enforcement, breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Focus on Diversity and Community Engagement
- Advocacy for Diversity: As Superintendent, Zebley has emphasized the importance of diversity within the police force, advocating for an equitable environment for all officers. She has expressed her commitment to addressing the challenges faced by law enforcement today, including issues of respect and safety, which further highlights her dedication to improving the agency and community relations.
These key moments in Melissa Zebley’s career illustrate her unwavering dedication to law enforcement, her commitment to continuous learning, and her leadership in paving the way for future generations within the Delaware State Police.
what are some of colonel Melissa A. Zebley’s major achievements in her career?
Colonel Melissa A. Zebley has achieved several major milestones throughout her distinguished career with the Delaware State Police (DSP):
Becoming the First Female Police Superintendent
In July 2020, Zebley made history by becoming the first female Police Superintendent of the Delaware State Police, overseeing approximately 1,000 employees, including 730 sworn officers. Her appointment is a significant achievement that breaks barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Steady Progression Through the Ranks
Zebley has steadily risen through the ranks of the DSP since joining as a State Trooper in 1992. Some key promotions include:
- Sergeant
- Public Information Officer
- Operations Officer
- Lieutenant Colonel (2019), signaling her selection as the apparent successor to Superintendent Colonel Nathaniel McQueen, Jr.
Continuous Education and Professional Development
Zebley has demonstrated a strong commitment to education and professional development throughout her career:
- Graduated from the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command (2000)
- Earned a Master of Science degree in Administration of Justice from Wilmington University (2003)
- Became an adjunct instructor and program assistant in Wilmington University’s Criminal Justice Program (2003)
- Graduated from the 235th session of the FBI National Academy (2008)
Advocacy for Diversity and Inclusion
As Superintendent, Zebley has emphasized the importance of diversity within the police force, noting that 97 of the sworn officers are women. She aims to create an equitable environment for all officers and has expressed concerns about the challenges faced by law enforcement in the current climate, including respect and safety issues.
These achievements highlight Colonel Zebley’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to professional growth and community service throughout her distinguished career with the Delaware State Police.
Colonel Melissa A. Zebley’s journey to the top of the Delaware State Police is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and leadership abilities. As the first female Superintendent, she has broken down barriers and paved the way for future generations of women in law enforcement. Zebley’s commitment to her community, her team, and her vision for the future of the DSP make her an inspiring and influential figure in the world of policing.
